When it comes to managing weight, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. For some, weight loss surgery offers a permanent, transformative approach, while others find injectable medications like Mounjaro, Ozempic, and Wegovy to be helpful tools. But can these two methods complement each other? At
In this blog, weight loss experts at Tonic Weight Loss Surgery delve into how weight loss surgery and injections can work together—and why starting with surgery often delivers the most effective and lasting results.
The Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery
Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, has been a trusted and proven method for achieving significant and sustained weight loss. Procedures such as the gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and gastric band surgery not only help you shed excess weight but also provide critical metabolic benefits.
Key Benefits:
- Significant Weight Loss: Surgery can help patients lose 60–70% of their excess weight, with results often lasting a lifetime.
- Improved Health Outcomes: Bariatric surgery reduces the risk of death from heart disease by 40%, cancer by 60%, and diabetes by 92%.
- Metabolic Changes: Surgery alters the hunger-regulating hormones in your body, making it easier to maintain a healthier lifestyle long-term.
These advantages make surgery the gold standard for weight management, especially for individuals struggling with obesity and related health conditions.
What Role Do Weight Loss Injections Play?
Weight loss injections like Ozempic and Wegovy work by mimicking natural hormones that regulate hunger and digestion. While they are effective for short-term weight loss—often leading to a 10–20% reduction in total body weight—the results are typically temporary. Many patients regain weight within a year of stopping treatment, as injections do not address the underlying causes of obesity.
Benefits of Injections:
- Short-Term Support: Ideal for pre-surgery weight loss or managing mild weight regain.
- Convenience: A minimally invasive option compared to surgery.
- Diabetes Management: Particularly effective for individuals with Type 2 diabetes.
While injections have their place, they are most effective when used as part of a comprehensive plan rather than a standalone solution.
Combining Surgery and Injections: When Does It Make Sense?
There are specific scenarios where weight loss injections can complement weight loss surgery to enhance results.
1. Pre-Surgery Weight Management
For patients with a high BMI, reducing weight before surgery can minimise risks and make the procedure safer. In these cases, injectable medications can help patients achieve a lower BMI, improving surgical outcomes.
2. Post-Surgery Support
While weight loss surgery is highly effective, some patients may experience weight regain over time due to hormonal changes, lifestyle factors, or medical conditions. Injections can serve as a supplementary tool to help control appetite and maintain weight loss.
3. Managing Underlying Conditions
Injections are particularly beneficial for patients with obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes. When used alongside bariatric surgery, they can help stabilise blood sugar levels and improve overall health.
Why Start with Weight Loss Surgery?
While injections can play a role in your weight loss journey, surgery offers the best foundation for long-term success. Here’s why:
- Permanent Results: Surgery addresses the root causes of obesity, such as stomach capacity and hormonal imbalances, ensuring sustained weight loss.
- Health Transformation: In addition to weight loss, bariatric surgery significantly reduces the risk of life-threatening conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Weight loss injections can cost £800-£1,200 per month, making surgery a more affordable, one-time investment in the long run.
- Comprehensive Care: Tonic, we provide ongoing support after surgery, including nutrition counselling, meal planning, and exercise guidance to ensure your success.
